November 25, 2016
Michigan

Sherman Township implores county to delay wind project approval

Brenda Battel, Tribune Staff Writer | Huron Daily Tribune | Friday, November 25, 2016 | www.michigansthumb.com

BAD AXE – A Sherman Township official “implored” the Huron County Board of Commissioners this week to postpone action on a wind overlay zone, as the township considers taking back its zoning.

“Today I’m here to ask the commissioners to delay making any decisions on the Huron Wind Project that includes Sherman Township until at least after our Dec. 13 meeting,” said Kathi Jahn, Sherman Township clerk.

“The officials of Sherman township would appreciate additional time so that adequate review can be done as to whether or not to take the necessary steps to take back zoning.”

She said the issue was briefly discussed at the Nov. 9 meeting, at which time it was tabled until the Dec. 13 meeting.

A member of the township board for 20 years, Jahn said she has always tried to base her decisions on what the majority of residents have wanted, and what is in the best interest of all.

“Without some additional time to review our options, that may prove to be a difficult task supporting the rights of all our township residents. … Our constitution starts with the words ‘We the People.’

“Let us not lose sight of the great words of our forefathers and let corporate America rule what happens in our community.”

“As township officials, I believe it is our legal and moral obligation to provide the best living environment for our citizens.”

Jahn thanked the board for its time served, “especially during these controversial times.”

“It takes a strong person to sometimes vote for or against their own beliefs for the benefit of many. I trust that you all will.”

The board did table action on the overlay district with a 4-3 vote, so that the board can review the overlay district boundaries between now and its Dec. 13 meeting.

Members of the public have criticized the project, saying that wind developers are dictating the boundaries of the overlay district.

Sherman Township accounts for 15,480 acre of the project, and Sigel Township accounts for 2,560 acres of the district.

NextEra also wishes to build turbines in self-zoned Sand Beach Township and Delaware Township, Sanilac County, for a total of 65 proposed turbines.